The MCSS Seniors Department is currently ramping up services during the COVID-19 outbreak.

With more people self-isolating during the COVID-19 pandemic, some seniors who normally live independently with the help of family and friends are now finding those supports unavailable and may require more community supports to remain connected and engaged.

The Province of British Columbia and United Way of the Lower Mainland are expanding services to meet the critical needs of seniors affected by this crisis through the delivery of essential non-medical services, including those preventing social isolation while still social distancing.

bc211 will be expanded to all areas of BC, including Mission, and additional capacity will be added as call volumes are expected to increase. Anyone in BC can call 2-1-1 if they wish to volunteer and anyone who needs to some help with groceries, medication pick up or wants to be matched with a social connection buddy can call 2-1-1.

The Better at Home (BH) program, which helps seniors with simple day-to-day tasks, will have funding increase to manage a COVID-19 Response Plan.  Twenty-four (including Mission Community Services) social service agencies throughout BC will serve as Better at Home COVID-19 Response “HUBS”.

Volunteer and client requests will be sent to one of the COVID-19 HUB agencies, who will match the needs of clients with volunteers.

In addition, BH will receive some additional funding in recognition of special challenges they will have meeting the needs to current BH clients, as all BH agencies face staffing and volunteer challenges with COVID-19 restrictions.

MCSS staff and volunteers are working to support our clients during this hard time. If you know of any Seniors in the community who are in need of wellness checks, food or any essential supplies, please call us 604-826-3634.

Anyone interested in volunteering to help with groceries, medications pickup or if you are a senior who would like to be matched with a social connection buddy, call 604-302-6297 or email [email protected].